Statins and Cardiovascular Risk in Rheumatic Diseases

• Published in: International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology 2012-01, Vol.25 (1), p.25-30
• Main Authors: Marasini, B., Massarotti, M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cardiovascular Diseases - prevention & control; Chronic Disease; Humans; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors - adverse effects; Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors - therapeutic use; Lipid Metabolism; Rheumatic Diseases - complications; Rheumatic Diseases - drug therapy; Rheumatic Diseases - metabolism
• ISSN: 0394-6320; 2058-7384
• DOI: 10.1177/039463201202500104

Chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) atherosclerotic events. The inflammatory state, which is the hallmark of chronic rheumatic diseases, is the important driving force for accelerated atherogenesis. Since the control of traditional risk factors alone is insufficient in reducing the risk, much attention has been directed towards the potential use of statins. Statins, a family of drugs that suppress cholesterol biosynthesis by inhibiting the hydroxymethyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase, have been shown to significantly reduce CV-related morbidity and mortality. In addition to lower lipid levels, several non-lipid lowering pleiotropic effects, including anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, make statins potential therapeutic agents in chronic rheumatic diseases. However, lipid metabolism in chronic rheumatic diseases is complex, since inflammatory states can induce alterations in lipid levels and function, so that cholesterol target levels from general guidelines may not be adequate in chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Larger trials are needed to refine the precise benefits and health-utility associated with this therapy.